It was a big weekend for the Minnesota women’s soccer team, and they’re getting due recognition for it. Following convincing wins at No. 20 South Carolina (Gophers 3, Gamecocks 1) and at home against Illinois State (Minnesota 3, Redbirds 0), the Gophers have vaulted into the National Soccer Coaches Association of America Top 25 and a pair of players have been recognized for their individual performances.

Minnesota (8-1-1) is ranked for the first time this season, landing at No. 18. That’s two spots ahead of Big Ten foe Illinois, a team the Gophers play Sunday at Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium.

For her efforts this weekend, redshirt freshman forward Steph Brandt was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week, her first such honor. Brandt tallied an assist at South Carolina and the game-winning goal Sunday against Illinois State.

Finally, senior defensive midfielder Kylie Kallman was tabbed as a Primetime Performer of the Week by collegesoccer360.com. As part of what head coach Mikki Denney Wright calls Minnesota’s back five, Kallman helped the Gophers allow just one goal to South Carolina and prevent Illinois State from even getting a shot on target. In addition, she assisted two goals from corners on Thursday against the Gamecocks and started the play that led to another goal with her corner kick Sunday against the Redbirds.